Management practices with the Animal Control Department forced Iroquois County members into an executive session today (Tues). The issue, and discussions about a solar energy ordinance and the bidding process for the County Farm operations, extended the 9 am meeting well past the noon hour.

(The meeting was still in session just before 1 pm)Alleged irregularities in Animal Control has stirred comments and a look-see investigation of how matters are handled in the animal control procedures.

Board member Larry Hasbargen raised the issue during public comment at the meeting, electing to take the matter into closed session. Board member and Tax Committee Chairman Marvin Stichnoth had suggested the Board take formal action in giving Animal Control Administrator Youseff a vote of confidence, after Stichnoth said he took a first-hand look at the operations at Yoseff’s business site in Watseka.

Hasbargen, last month, had raised questions after hearing of allegations of dogs not being treated correctly.

The event recognizes the September 11th attack on America. Similar programs were held across the country to honor first-responders, including the military, police and fire and EMS personnel. The annual event is sponsored by the Iroquois County Republican Women’s Club.

Ashkum Fire Chief Jeff Glenn and Senator Jason Barickman spoke, sharing stories of community involvement and dedicated volunteers who answer the calls when the public is in need.

The Illinois State Fire Marshal today honors the nearly three thousand men and women who lost their lives in the attacks on September 11, 2001, as well as all the courageous first responders who responded to the attack. Those victims include 343 firefighters who sacrificed their lives for their duty.

“Those who lost their lives sixteen years ago are gone but never forgotten,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Matt Perez. “We remember the courage and sacrifice of our fellow firefighters who stepped up in the face of grave danger. Today and every day, our thoughts are with the loved ones they left behind.”

Victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks include more than 400 emergency workers, police officers, firefighters, and EMT/paramedics. These first responders rushed into unknown circumstances to save the lives of fellow Americans are heroes.

In recognition of the 16th anniversary, the Illinois State Fire Marshal encourages all Illinoisans to remember those we lost, including our first responders and those with ties to Illinois.

Washington, DC – On the 16th anniversary of the tragic terror attacks of September 11, 2001 that took the lives of thousands of innocent Americans, Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-16) released the following statement:

“Many of us remember exactly where we were the moment the towers fell. We remember that moment when our homeland was attacked by pure evil. But what we remember most 16 years later is the bravery of Americans, the strength of our resolve, the heroes who sacrificed their lives to save others, and our nation standing united in the face of hate.

“Today and every day, may we honor the fallen by remembering and by paying tribute to our patriots. The fight against terrorism continues, but the heart of American freedom will keep us united in the days, months, and years ahead. Hate will never will; freedom will prevail.”